With our absolute beginner's guide and foolproof baker's secrets, making the holiday season's favorite dessert from scratch is, well, as easy as pie. Click through for five delicious, no-fail recipes, tips to create a perfect crust, and our best bakeware recommendations.

What's the difference between sweet potatoes and yams? Which thickening agent works best for pie? Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Get the answers to all of your Thanksgiving-feast FAQs here.

Among the myriad tasks associated with prepping a big meal, ensuring everyone sits in the right spot at the dinner table can get lost in the holiday shuffle. Plot out your seating plan with this cornucopia of fast and easy place card ideas.